Aging Gracefully, the Ayurvedic Way

Skin care is not a few-day practice, but it needs to be pursued at each and every stage of life. Also, skin health much depends upon the overall health condition of the individual, hence what we put into our system is important. Daily and Seasonal Regimen specific to skin care has to be followed based on one’s Prakriti and skin health for long-lasting beauty. Regular intake of nutritious meals in proper quantity and quality containing plenty of seasonal fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants will help to nourish all the organs, including the skin. Skin nutrition cannot be enhanced only through topical applications. Macro and Micronutrients are important for healthy and glowing skin. Malnutrition affects skin appearance. Regardless of our body shape or proportions or the colour of our skin, the more we nurture ourselves, the more radiant we become physically. The three aspects of beauty are outer, inner and secret aspects. When we balance the outer and inner aspects, we accomplish the secret aspect. 

As our personality and confidence rely on beauty, it is important that we spend time on a skin care routine in our daily life in order to delay skin aging, improve skin complexion and luster and prevent skin damage from adverse effects of environmental factors such as pollution and climatic changes. Skin Health depends on the balance of the three Doshas. Moisture balance of the skin is controlled by Kapha Dosha. Pitta Dosha gives complexion and luster to the skin. It is the heat that controls the chemical and hormonal activities of the skin. Skin layers are supplied with proper nutrition by Vata Dosha as it controls circulation.  

Skin Care Journey  

Daily care for the skin is not just a cosmetic event, but positive routines and habits that literally will bring out the best in ourselves. It makes true good looks possible. Even as we grow older, with appropriate care, we will mature with a strength and vitality which will bring out a new depth to our outer beauty, a beauty born of life experience. Following a daily and seasonal routine will help in balancing the Doshas and improve inner health, thereby nourishing the skin. Aging should be seen as a journey towards vibrant health and inner glow through continuous learning and growth, and not as a decline. As there are some changes and losses with aging, it is important for us to be self-compassionate and practice acceptance without judgment, regulate emotions and reduce stress through meditation and mindfulness practices. As we grow old, we understand different perspectives, which can make us become wiser and better at managing stress. We should start holding positive beliefs, cultivate a sense of purpose by volunteering or learning new skills or hobbies, maintain social connections with family and friends to boost mood, practice gratitude to reduce stress and improve our outlook on aging, find small joys in life, reflect on oneself and cultivate qualities of kindness and compassion, create a holistic plan like daily exercises, morning rituals, evening meditation and timely sleep to begin our journey towards vibrant and healthy aging.   

Every individual is unique. As the skin of different Prakriti people has different characteristics, hence have specific needs. Most importantly, consult an Ayurveda physician for tailor-made personalised anti-aging suggestions that are unique to your body type for maximised benefits.